New cars 2013
With the new registration change just around the corner - and such a dizzying array of models flooding the market - it can be difficult to know which way to turn if you want a good value, stylish and well-rounded new car.
Every new car registered after 1 March, will come with the brand-new 13-reg prefix. It supersedes the 62-reg prefix and will run until September 2013.
So we’ve put together a list of the best new or recently facelifted cars to help you make an informed choice in the showroom. Each one manages to strike a good balance between comfort, style, economy and performance, and are all cars that can rule your heart as well as your head. We’ve got the best models from Volkswagen, Ford and Renault, as well as new cars from Mazda and Skoda.
So if you’re in the market for an upgrade, replacement or something different in 2013, and aren’t sure which should make your shortlist, be sure to take a look at our comprehensive top 10.
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1
Dacia Duster compact SUV
£8,995 - £14,995
For the price of a new Ford Fiesta or Renault Clio, you can bag yourself a spacious SUV with room for the whole family. The basic Dacia Duster starts at just £8,995 and comes with power steering and steel wheels. However, it comes without air-conditioning and electric windows – and even a stereo is an optional extra. But the top-spec Laureate is still only £14,995 and comes with four-wheel drive, alloy wheels, air-con and electric rear windows. Amazing value
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2
Volkswagen Golf hatchback
£16,495 - £24,375
The new Volkswagen Golf somehow manages to tick nearly every box on every list. Its renowned quality is matched by a comfortable ride and an exciting drive, while superb economy and decent practicality complete the package. The Golf could easily and justifiably be described as “all the car you’ll ever need”.
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3
Mazda6 saloon
£19,595 - £27,295
If you need something a bit bigger than a VW Golf, then you can’t go far wrong with the brand-new Mazda 6. It’s better to drive than a Volkswagen Passat and more efficient than a Vauxhall Insignia. What’s more, with the new Ford Mondeo not arriving until 2014, the Mazda has finally got the family class wrapped up.
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4
Ford Fiesta hatchback
£9,995 - £17,545
An aggressive mid-life facelift sees the Ford Fiesta gain a completely new front and lightly updated rear. The gaping grille injects new life into the stylish supermini, while a range of efficient engines makes it more appealing than ever. Choose the lively 1.0-litre EcoBoost and you’ll mix great performance with impressive running costs.
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5
Ford B-MAX hatchback
£12,995 - £18,895
The hugely innovative Ford B-MAX has taken the mini-MPV sector by storm. By removing the structural B-pillar from between the front and back doors, the B-MAX benefits from unrivalled access to the rear seats – making loading families and luggage a doddle. As in the Fiesta, the accomplished 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine is a gem.
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6
New Skoda Octavia hatchback
£21,390 - £21,390
Based on the Volkswagen Golf, the new Skoda Octavia benefits from many of the VW’s countless charms. It’s not quite as sharp to drive, and the interior doesn’t feel as well put together – but it’s slightly cheaper than the Golf and standard equipment is impressive. It’s a well-rounded package, and reliability should be second to none.
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7
Renault Clio hatchback
£10,595 - £15,345
The brand-new Renault Clio turns the old car on its head and injects a dose of style to the sensible supermini. It’s only available as a five-door, but Renault has cleverly disguised the rear handle to give it a sleek three-door shape. A great range of petrol and diesel engines and a vast array of personalisation options make this a great 13-plate purchase.
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8
SEAT Leon hatchback
£15,670 - £22,335
Like the Skoda Octavia, the stylish SEAT Leon is also based on the Mk7 VW Golf. It’s the last in the line-up to be released and, as a result, should remain the most exclusive on-road in the coming months. That’s not to say it’s unaccomplished. The new Leon is sharp to look at, sharper to drive and when fitted with the superb 181bhp 2.0 TDI diesel, will reward an impressive turn of pace, too.
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9
Ford Focus ST hatchback
£21,995 - £25,495
The superb Ford Focus ST has been in showrooms for a little while now, but this list wouldn’t be complete without our favourite 13-plate hot hatchback. With 247bhp, it mixes standard Focus practicality with a sporty drive and impressive acceleration. What’s more, it’ll manage to return 39.2mpg.
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10
Peugeot RCZ coupe
The already stylish Peugeot RCZ has been given a mid-life nip and tuck to freshen its appeal – and is now more attractive than ever. It’s not as well built as a VW Scirocco, but will turn more heads than an Audi TT. A wide range of petrol and diesel engines mean the sleek Peugeot is affordable to run, too.
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